SURAT THANI – A 58-year-old German tourist was arrested on Wednesday for spray painting “Save Gaza” graffiti at more than 40 spots on Koh Phangan in Surat Thani province, according to immigration police.
Immigration police officers said they tracked him to a hotel in Bangkok’s Sao Chingcha area. He was taken into custody under a warrant issued the same day by the Koh Samui Provincial Court. Authorities said he’s accused of damaging public property and illegally spray-painting messages on walls, power poles, and other public structures.
Immigration Police later transferred him to Koh Phangan police station for further legal action.
The incident drew strong reactions online after photos showed English graffiti across the island. Messages included “SAVE GAZA” on roadside information signs and “LIBRE” on electricity poles. Other markings were reported on roads, trash bins, traffic signs, and kilometer markers, many of them state property.
Before his arrest, the German man contacted Khaosod News to explain why he did it. He said he loves Thailand and has visited often since his first trip in 2001. He also said Thai people have always treated him well. He claimed he was troubled by changes he noticed on Koh Phangan, including a larger number of Israeli nationals living on the island.
He said he believed some “war criminals” were in Thailand, which he said pushed him to act. “My intent was to remind Israelis of their history and ask for discourse regarding war criminals,” he said.
He apologized for what happened, adding, “I am sorry for the damage I caused to private property. I am sorry for upsetting the Phangan local community.”
